as in to explain
to give the reason for or cause of
rationalized his decision to buy the new car by noting that it was more fuel efficient than his old vehicle
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Recent Examples of rationalize
The reason this is important is that humans all try to rationalize behaviors and situations.
—
Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 23 May 2026
After years spent diversifying its low-end components and moving electronics down from the high end to the middle of its range, Shimano has finally decided to rationalize everything.
—ArsTechnica, 15 May 2026
At first, these moments can feel easy to rationalize.
—Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 1 May 2026
And time and again, high fuel prices have been the most powerful catalyst for change, separating the winners and forcing weaker players to rationalize, consolidate or be eliminated, Delta CEO Ed Bastian said on an earnings call last week.
—Leslie Josephs, CNBC, 14 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rationalize
Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 23 May 2026
After years spent diversifying its low-end components and moving electronics down from the high end to the middle of its range, Shimano has finally decided to rationalize everything.
—ArsTechnica, 15 May 2026
At first, these moments can feel easy to rationalize.
—Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 1 May 2026
And time and again, high fuel prices have been the most powerful catalyst for change, separating the winners and forcing weaker players to rationalize, consolidate or be eliminated, Delta CEO Ed Bastian said on an earnings call last week.
—Leslie Josephs, CNBC, 14 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rationalize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rationalize
Verb
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Thune has repeatedly explained that the bill, which Democrats and a handful of Republicans oppose, does not have the votes to pass in the Senate.—
Kaia Hubbard,
CBS News,
18 June 2026
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The Logan star also explains how the strenuousness of the fight scenes doubled as an artistic choice.—
Wesley Stenzel,
Entertainment Weekly,
18 June 2026
Verb
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This looser-fitting top sits right at the waistband and is made of a durable nylon and elastane blend that resists wear and tear (justifying the price point).—
Katie Jackson,
Travel + Leisure,
22 June 2026
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Whatever happens for the remainder of this World Cup cannot be used to justify a system that has nothing to do with development, or kids playing sports.—
Mac Engel
June 22,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
22 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Rationalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rationalize. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
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